Bethany's bite had traumatized Aster. When Bethany touched Aster's hand, he flinched, instinctively taking a step back.

It hurt Larissa to see that.

Aster was an outgoing child who got along well with everyone around him. It was extremely rare for him to reject a person. He shook his head ever so slightly and raised his head, casting a pleading look at Larissa.

Reading the fear in his eyes, Larissa stepped forward, using her own body to shield him.

"Ma'am," she began to say, turning to Viol